This Pregnant Rescue Dog’s Maternity Photo Shoot Will Make You Smile

Ever since a pregnant Demi Moore famously posed for the cover of Vanity Fair in 1991, maternity photo shoots have become a fun and popular way for expectant moms to celebrate their pregnancies. It seems that even four-legged moms-to-be are getting in on the trend!

Maternity photos of Ima, a rescue dog who will soon be available for adoption in Charlotte, North Carolina, recently went viral after her foster mom Sarah Freeman posted a set of pictures online. The photo shoot showed the then-heavily pregnant dog grinning ear-to-ear and even wearing a flower crown and sash.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bllc8ERgGUH/?taken-by=charlottespca

“I love taking adorable photos of my fosters to show them off on Instagram — it is such a great way to show off your fosters and find homes!” Freeman told People magazine. “I thought it would be a great way to spend the afternoon.”

Although Ima is now Internet-famous, her life wasn’t always so happy. According to Freeman, Ima’s previous owner neglected and abandoned her. Afterwards, a neighbor took her in, but Ima managed to escape over a six-foot fence and disappear before returning a month later pregnant.

Unable to care for a pregnant dog, the neighbor surrendered Ima to a local rescue. That’s how she came into the care of Freeman and the Greater Charlotte SPCA.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BlwbWoDA0uT/

Luckily for everyone, Ima’s pregnancy went smoothly, and last week she gave birth to a litter of 11 healthy puppies. Although the proud momma was very tired, she still managed to flash a big smile for the camera.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BmEYAXXAu07/

Ima and all of her puppies will be available for adoption through the Greater Charlotte SPCA in about six weeks. Freeman said she particularly hopes Ima will find a wonderful forever family to adopt her.

“She loves any affection you give her and does well with my dog and other fosters,” said Freeman. “I think she will do great in any home!”

Congratulations, Ima!